News Release

Monday, March 31, 2014

WHAT:
News conference to announce the Los Angeles Police Department’s traffic enforcement/education initiates directed to motorists who use a cell phone and/or text while driving. The program encourages high school seniors to promote a Sober Graduation. Valley Traffic Division will debut their “LAPD - Don’t Text and Drive” thumb bands for those that take a safe driving pledge.

WHY:
The National Highway Transportation and Safety Administration has designated the month of April as “National Distracted Driving Awareness Month.” In recognizing this campaign LAPD’s Valley Traffic Division is kicking off their “LOOK UP!” Campaign in an effort to bring awareness to the motoring public in regards to the dangers of texting and driving. This education effort and directed enforcement by officers of Valley Traffic Division will include all forms of distracted driving as well as an effort to educate San Fernando Valley high school seniors regarding the dangers of drinking and driving during Prom and Graduation.

VISUALS:
The program includes a demonstration on the football field, where there will be a driving course set up. Pre-selected seniors from Panorama High School will wear “Fatal Vision” goggles and drive the driving course to simulate driving under the influence. Thumb bands and pledges will be available for display.